New Delhi, 16 December 2024: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has been tasked with initiating a pivotal discussion on the Constitution in the Rajya Sabha, set to take place over two days. This marks a departure from earlier plans to have Leader of the House JP Nadda take the lead.
Following Sitharaman, Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge is slated to address the House, setting the tone for what promises to be a contentious session.
The proceedings hold particular significance as the Rajya Sabha reconvenes after nearly two weeks of disruptions.
These delays were fueled by heated exchanges over the BJP’s accusations linking the Congress to US businessman George Soros, alleged to harbor anti-India intentions, and an Opposition-backed motion seeking the removal of Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar, whom they accuse of partiality.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to respond to the debate, adding weight to the government’s stance in the Upper House. In contrast, during the Lok Sabha’s earlier two-day discussion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi directly addressed the issues at hand.
With key players from both sides set to take center stage, today’s debate is anticipated to deepen the ongoing political divide while laying bare competing narratives around governance and constitutional integrity.
